Changes in my life, new system, need new speakers


So I have moved into a new place, and have a very very small family room. Also got hit by a power surge and were taken out. I am working with insurance (slow) and manufactures (ever slower). But for now I have gone from an Audio Research LS5 MK III and Odyssey Kismet mono blocks. To an NAD M12 and M32 which I have 0 complaints about even coming from tubes and Class A’s the NAD Masters series just sounds amazing to me. But this new sleek looking system in my modern family room is kind of an eye sore with my current JM Lab Mini Utopia speakers. Now by no means am I giving up my Mini Utopia’s they will go with the Audio Research and Kistmet’s when I get a bigger place. For now I am going to the NAD stuff because I really like it and I want a small sleek amazing sounding bookshelf to go with the setup.

I was looking at the LS50 Meta initially but I do have the budget for more. Then I was looking at the Monitor Audio Gold 100 5g which used is right in my $2500 budget.

I listen to everything but mainly Classical, Jazz, and Rock and whichever bookshelf I pick will be matched with an SVS 3000 Micro

I am not looking for you to make a decision for me. I am looking for amazing sounding bookshelf speakers in my $2500 budget (used speaker budget) or if i am better off keeping the Mini Utopias for now.  If I do find something it would be nice if they were a step up from the Mini Utopias.   I will do my own research and testing, just looking for speakers people recommend and the reason why. Then this summer when I get a house I will have two amazing systems.

128x128justinrphillips

Justin,

I can whole heartedly recommend Buchardt Audio S400 MkIIs. I've had them for 9 months, and I've not regretted the purchase. Great sound stage (deep and wide), excellent instrument separation, vocals are lush and sweet, highs are clear and revealing but never sibilant or irritating, and very easy to place.

Must be aware of: need to be able to be place nearer the wall....18" or so, 88db efficient at 4 ohms so you need some power (your NAD should have no issues, and if you're a bass head....you'll need a sub.

$2,200 a pair, free shipping, and 45 return policy.....highly recommend, and there are loads of reviews for you to go through

I had an NAD M33 with Monitor Audio Gold 100 speakers and they sounded and looked great!

I am a big fan of the Buchardts, Zero Fidelity, New Record Day and Darko love them too. I corresponded with Mr. Buchardt  a few times and he seems very cool.  

Good luck in your hunt.  I would get out and audition a few of the speakers that have been mentioned.  I have had the opportunity to hear most of them and the only ones I would scratch is Focal. 

I will say the Monitor and Fritz would be on the top of my list.